ObjectiveIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the foundational doctrine that the eyes reflect the essence of the internal viscera establishes ocular observation as a cornerstone of diagnostic practice. Specifically, the morphological characteristics and coloration variations of the scleral microvasculature serve as critical clinical indicators for assessing the dynamic balance of Qi and Blood, as well as the pathological status of internal organs. Historically, however, TCM eye diagnosis has relied predominantly on the subjective clinical experience and visual acuity of individual practitioners, leading to inherent challenges in standardization and reproducibility. While automated computer-aided diagnostic systems offer a promising solution, existing vessel segmentation algorithms encounter significant domain-specific bottlenecks when applied to scleral imagery. These challenges primarily stem from the highly reflective and moist nature of the ocular surface, which generates severe reflective interference. Furthermore, the inherent low contrast of fine capillary networks against complex background textures, compounded by non-uniform illumination, frequently results in high false-positive rates, misdetections, and severe vessel fragmentation. To address these critical limitations and advance the objective quantification of TCM diagnostics, this paper proposes a novel, highly robust sclera vessel segmentation framework that innovatively integrates Frangi-Sato dual-filter adaptive enhancement with pixel-level reflection detection. MethodsThe proposed methodology systematically addresses the segmentation pipeline through three synergistic stages. First, to overcome the structural limitations of single-filter approaches, a multi-scale weighted fusion strategy is meticulously designed to harness the complementary extraction capabilities of both Frangi and Sato filters. This adaptive enhancement optimally balances the preservation of main vessel trunk continuity with the heightened sensitivity required for delineating delicate, low-contrast peripheral capillaries. Second, to tackle the persistent issue of reflective highlights, a sophisticated multi-feature synergistic reflection detection module is introduced. By jointly analyzing local information entropy, gradient field variations, and intensity statistical distributions, this module achieves precise, pixel-level identification and elimination of reflective artifacts without compromising the underlying vascular structures. Finally, a dual-level adaptive thresholding strategy, featuring an innovative “core protection” mechanism, is implemented. This critical step effectively suppresses complex background noise while rigorously preserving the structural and topological integrity of the intricate vessel network, preventing the structural breaks often seen in conventional binarization methods. ResultsThe efficacy of the proposed framework was rigorously evaluated using both self-constructed clinical datasets specifically acquired for TCM research and standardized public datasets. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method consistently outperforms state-of-the-art traditional approaches and contemporary deep learning models. Specifically, the proposed method achieves a Dice similarity coefficient of approximately 0.71 on the private clinical dataset, and secures the best performance across the majority of quantitative metrics on both datasets. Notably, the framework exhibits exceptional robustness and generalization capabilities in highly challenging scenarios characterized by intense reflective interference, low signal-to-noise ratios, and cross-domain image variations. ConclusionThis study successfully realizes the high-integrity, automated segmentation of scleral vessel networks under complex clinical imaging conditions. By overcoming the fundamental algorithmic challenges of reflection interference and micro-vessel loss, the proposed methodology provides potential support for the digitization, objective standardization, and intelligent advancement of modern TCM eye diagnosis systems.

ObjectiveIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the foundational doctrine that the eyes reflect the essence of the internal viscera establishes ocular observation as a cornerstone of diagnostic practice. Specifically, the morphological characteristics and coloration variations of the scleral microvasculature serve as critical clinical indicators for assessing the dynamic balance of Qi and Blood, as well as the pathological status of internal organs. Historically, however, TCM eye diagnosis has relied predominantly on the subjective clinical experience and visual acuity of individual practitioners, leading to inherent challenges in standardization and reproducibility. While automated computer-aided diagnostic systems offer a promising solution, existing vessel segmentation algorithms encounter significant domain-specific bottlenecks when applied to scleral imagery. These challenges primarily stem from the highly reflective and moist nature of the ocular surface, which generates severe reflective interference. Furthermore, the inherent low contrast of fine capillary networks against complex background textures, compounded by non-uniform illumination, frequently results in high false-positive rates, misdetections, and severe vessel fragmentation. To address these critical limitations and advance the objective quantification of TCM diagnostics, this paper proposes a novel, highly robust sclera vessel segmentation framework that innovatively integrates Frangi-Sato dual-filter adaptive enhancement with pixel-level reflection detection. MethodsThe proposed methodology systematically addresses the segmentation pipeline through three synergistic stages. First, to overcome the structural limitations of single-filter approaches, a multi-scale weighted fusion strategy is meticulously designed to harness the complementary extraction capabilities of both Frangi and Sato filters. This adaptive enhancement optimally balances the preservation of main vessel trunk continuity with the heightened sensitivity required for delineating delicate, low-contrast peripheral capillaries. Second, to tackle the persistent issue of reflective highlights, a sophisticated multi-feature synergistic reflection detection module is introduced. By jointly analyzing local information entropy, gradient field variations, and intensity statistical distributions, this module achieves precise, pixel-level identification and elimination of reflective artifacts without compromising the underlying vascular structures. Finally, a dual-level adaptive thresholding strategy, featuring an innovative “core protection” mechanism, is implemented. This critical step effectively suppresses complex background noise while rigorously preserving the structural and topological integrity of the intricate vessel network, preventing the structural breaks often seen in conventional binarization methods. ResultsThe efficacy of the proposed framework was rigorously evaluated using both self-constructed clinical datasets specifically acquired for TCM research and standardized public datasets. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method consistently outperforms state-of-the-art traditional approaches and contemporary deep learning models. Specifically, the proposed method achieves a Dice similarity coefficient of approximately 0.71 on the private clinical dataset, and secures the best performance across the majority of quantitative metrics on both datasets. Notably, the framework exhibits exceptional robustness and generalization capabilities in highly challenging scenarios characterized by intense reflective interference, low signal-to-noise ratios, and cross-domain image variations. ConclusionThis study successfully realizes the high-integrity, automated segmentation of scleral vessel networks under complex clinical imaging conditions. By overcoming the fundamental algorithmic challenges of reflection interference and micro-vessel loss, the proposed methodology provides potential support for the digitization, objective standardization, and intelligent advancement of modern TCM eye diagnosis systems.

OBJECTIVE: To block family transmission of a small fragment copy number variation (CNV) with combined 1 Mb resolution preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) and target region preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disease (PGT-M) strategies. METHODS: A couple who attended the Reproductive and Genetic Medicine Center of Dalian Women and Children's Medical Center (Group) in 2024 were selected as the study subject. Upon the woman's two pregnancies, ultrasound examination revealed fetal abnormalities, and CNV-seq based on low-depth whole genome sequencing revealed that both fetuses had carried a maternal 17p12 microduplication of approximately 1.43 Mb. Microduplication in this region has been associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A. In view of the fact that the resolution of conventional PGT-A detection cannot meet the requirement of small fragment CNV analysis, and conventional PGT-M assay cannot directly determine the CNV, two detection schemes were adopted. On the one hand, PGT-A testing with 1 Mb resolution was performed on the embryo to directly determine whether it carries the above microduplication. At the same time, the couple and their fetus were subjected to chromosomal typing scheme for the 17p12 region to indirectly identify embryos carrying the risk chromosome for microduplication. This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Hospital (Ethics No: FEJT-KY-2025-51). RESULTS: Three embryos were tested after the first PGT cycle, of which 1 was not carrying the pathogenic variant and was euploid, whilst the other 2 embryos were carrying the 17p12 microduplication, and 1 of them was aneuploid. After genetic counseling, the euploid embryo without the 17p12 microduplication was selected for transfer, and prenatal diagnosis based on amniotic fluid sample showed that the fetal chromosomal karyotype was normal and did not carry the 17p12 microduplication. CONCLUSION The combined application of high-resolution PGT-A and PGT-M typing detection of the target region can effectively block family transmission of the CNVs of small fragments.
Humans ; Female ; DNA Copy Number Variations/genetics* ; Preimplantation Diagnosis/methods* ; Pregnancy ; Pedigree ; Genetic Testing/methods* ; Male ; Adult ; Aneuploidy ; Chromosomes, Human, Pair 17/genetics* ; China ; East Asian People

Aim To explore the molecular mechanism of Tongluo Tangtai(TLTT)prescription in the preven-tion and treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)based on network pharmacology and in vitro experimental verification.Methods The chemical composition information of Tongluo Tangtai was searched by TCMSP database and literature search,and the target of chemical composition was collected by PubChem and SwissTargetPrediction database.DPN targets were collected through GeneCards database.GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment of common target proteins were analyzed using DAVID database.The correlation network diagram was constructed using Cytoscape software,and the main active components and target genes were screened for molecular docking study.The in vitro model of DPN was constructed in Schwann cells induced by high glucose.The effect of TLTT on the survival rate of RSC96 cells was detected by CCK-8 method,and the gene expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway related target molecules in RSC96 cells was detected by Real-time PCR.The expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins in RSC96 cells were detected by Western blot.Results The main active components such as stigmasterol,β-si-tosterol and quercetin were screened,which mainly ac-ted on EGFR,AKT1,MAPK3 and Wnt,PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways.The molecular docking re-sults showed that stigmasterol,β-sitosterol,quercetin and other components could dock well with EGFR,AKT1,MAPK3 and other targets.The results of cell experiment showed that 10％TLTT drug-containing ser-um could promote the viability of high-glucose Schwann cells,up-regulate the expression of β-catenin protein,and down-regulate the expression of GSK-3β and Wif-1 protein.Conclusions TLTT has the characteristics of multi-target-multi-pathway in the treatment of DPN.The possible mechanism is that TLTT activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway,improves the inhibi-tory effect of high glucose on the proliferation of Schwann cells,promotes the proliferation of Schwann cells,and thus improves the status of DPN.

Three typical failures of large-aperture 16-slice spiral Siemens SOMATOM Sensation Open CT were introduced in terms of phenomenon,cause and treatment method.References were provided for medical engineers to treat similar failures.

Objective:To investigate the factors associated with chromosomal abnormalities in embryos of patients with recurrent miscarriage in the in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET) population, and to establish a prediction model for chromosomal abnormalities. Methods:This was a retrospective case-control study, aborted tissues were collected from 349 patients who attended the Reproductive and Genetic Laboratory Sports New Town Ward of Dalian Women's and Children's Medical Center (Group) after IVF/ICSI from September 2019 to October 2024, and the samples were examined by copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq) combined with short tandem repeat (STR) technology. According to the test results, the aborted tissues were divided into chromosome normal and chromosome abnormal groups. Factors affecting the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities were analyzed by univariate analysis and multifactorial logistic regression.Results:1) By CNV-seq combined with STR method, a total of 252 cases (72.21%, 252/349) of chromosomal abnormalities were detected, while 97 cases had normal chromosomes. 2) The results of univariate analysis showed that the differences in female age, female body mass index (BMI), gestational week, number of miscarriages, progesterone level after 14 d post-transplantation, ovarian reserve function, male age, and male BMI were statistically significant between the chromosome normal group and the chromosome abnormal group (all P<0.05). 3) The results of the multifactorial logistic regression model showed that female age ( OR=1.261, 95% CI: 1.137-1.398, P<0.001), female BMI ( OR=1.121, 95% CI: 1.038-1.227, P=0.004), gestational week ( OR=1.406, 95% CI: 1.155-1.711, P=0.001), progesterone level 14 d after transplantation ( OR=1.016, 95% CI: 1.000-1.031, P=0.043), and BMI of the male partner ( OR=1.132, 95% CI: 1.050-1.220, P=0.001) were the independent risk factors of chromosomal abnormalities. 4) There were statistically significant differences in female age, female BMI, gestational week, progesterone level 14 d after transplantation, and male BMI between patients with normal chromosomes and those with trisomy chromosomes in aborted tissues (all P<0.05).Advanced female age was correlated with the occurrence of trisomy 22 ( P<0.05), and there was a correlation between advanced female age and increased male BMI and the occurrence of trisomy 16 (all P<0.05). Conclusion:The increase in maternal age, BMI, gestational age, progesterone levels 14 d after transplantation, and male BMI can all lead to an increase in the rate of chromosomal abnormalities and an increase in the incidence of trisomy. The advanced age of the female, can lead to the occurrence of trisomy 22. The age of the female and the BMI of the male are positively correlated with the abnormality rate of trisomy 16.

Three typical failures of large-aperture 16-slice spiral Siemens SOMATOM Sensation Open CT were introduced in terms of phenomenon,cause and treatment method.References were provided for medical engineers to treat similar failures.

Aim To explore the molecular mechanism of Tongluo Tangtai(TLTT)prescription in the preven-tion and treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy(DPN)based on network pharmacology and in vitro experimental verification.Methods The chemical composition information of Tongluo Tangtai was searched by TCMSP database and literature search,and the target of chemical composition was collected by PubChem and SwissTargetPrediction database.DPN targets were collected through GeneCards database.GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment of common target proteins were analyzed using DAVID database.The correlation network diagram was constructed using Cytoscape software,and the main active components and target genes were screened for molecular docking study.The in vitro model of DPN was constructed in Schwann cells induced by high glucose.The effect of TLTT on the survival rate of RSC96 cells was detected by CCK-8 method,and the gene expression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway related target molecules in RSC96 cells was detected by Real-time PCR.The expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins in RSC96 cells were detected by Western blot.Results The main active components such as stigmasterol,β-si-tosterol and quercetin were screened,which mainly ac-ted on EGFR,AKT1,MAPK3 and Wnt,PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways.The molecular docking re-sults showed that stigmasterol,β-sitosterol,quercetin and other components could dock well with EGFR,AKT1,MAPK3 and other targets.The results of cell experiment showed that 10％TLTT drug-containing ser-um could promote the viability of high-glucose Schwann cells,up-regulate the expression of β-catenin protein,and down-regulate the expression of GSK-3β and Wif-1 protein.Conclusions TLTT has the characteristics of multi-target-multi-pathway in the treatment of DPN.The possible mechanism is that TLTT activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway,improves the inhibi-tory effect of high glucose on the proliferation of Schwann cells,promotes the proliferation of Schwann cells,and thus improves the status of DPN.

Objective:To investigate the factors associated with chromosomal abnormalities in embryos of patients with recurrent miscarriage in the in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET) population, and to establish a prediction model for chromosomal abnormalities. Methods:This was a retrospective case-control study, aborted tissues were collected from 349 patients who attended the Reproductive and Genetic Laboratory Sports New Town Ward of Dalian Women's and Children's Medical Center (Group) after IVF/ICSI from September 2019 to October 2024, and the samples were examined by copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq) combined with short tandem repeat (STR) technology. According to the test results, the aborted tissues were divided into chromosome normal and chromosome abnormal groups. Factors affecting the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities were analyzed by univariate analysis and multifactorial logistic regression.Results:1) By CNV-seq combined with STR method, a total of 252 cases (72.21%, 252/349) of chromosomal abnormalities were detected, while 97 cases had normal chromosomes. 2) The results of univariate analysis showed that the differences in female age, female body mass index (BMI), gestational week, number of miscarriages, progesterone level after 14 d post-transplantation, ovarian reserve function, male age, and male BMI were statistically significant between the chromosome normal group and the chromosome abnormal group (all P<0.05). 3) The results of the multifactorial logistic regression model showed that female age ( OR=1.261, 95% CI: 1.137-1.398, P<0.001), female BMI ( OR=1.121, 95% CI: 1.038-1.227, P=0.004), gestational week ( OR=1.406, 95% CI: 1.155-1.711, P=0.001), progesterone level 14 d after transplantation ( OR=1.016, 95% CI: 1.000-1.031, P=0.043), and BMI of the male partner ( OR=1.132, 95% CI: 1.050-1.220, P=0.001) were the independent risk factors of chromosomal abnormalities. 4) There were statistically significant differences in female age, female BMI, gestational week, progesterone level 14 d after transplantation, and male BMI between patients with normal chromosomes and those with trisomy chromosomes in aborted tissues (all P<0.05).Advanced female age was correlated with the occurrence of trisomy 22 ( P<0.05), and there was a correlation between advanced female age and increased male BMI and the occurrence of trisomy 16 (all P<0.05). Conclusion:The increase in maternal age, BMI, gestational age, progesterone levels 14 d after transplantation, and male BMI can all lead to an increase in the rate of chromosomal abnormalities and an increase in the incidence of trisomy. The advanced age of the female, can lead to the occurrence of trisomy 22. The age of the female and the BMI of the male are positively correlated with the abnormality rate of trisomy 16.

Objective:To block family transmission of a small fragment copy number variation (CNV) with combined 1 Mb resolution preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) and target region preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disease (PGT-M) strategies.Methods:A couple who attended the Reproductive and Genetic Medicine Center of Dalian Women and Children′s Medical Center (Group) in 2024 were selected as the study subject. Upon the woman′s two pregnancies, ultrasound examination revealed fetal abnormalities, and CNV-seq based on low-depth whole genome sequencing revealed that both fetuses had carried a maternal 17p12 microduplication of approximately 1.43 Mb. Microduplication in this region has been associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A. In view of the fact that the resolution of conventional PGT-A detection cannot meet the requirement of small fragment CNV analysis, and conventional PGT-M assay cannot directly determine the CNV, two detection schemes were adopted. On the one hand, PGT-A testing with 1 Mb resolution was performed on the embryo to directly determine whether it carries the above microduplication. At the same time, the couple and their fetus were subjected to chromosomal typing scheme for the 17p12 region to indirectly identify embryos carrying the risk chromosome for microduplication. This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Hospital (Ethics No: FEJT-KY-2025-51).Results:Three embryos were tested after the first PGT cycle, of which 1 was not carrying the pathogenic variant and was euploid, whilst the other 2 embryos were carrying the 17p12 microduplication, and 1 of them was aneuploid. After genetic counseling, the euploid embryo without the 17p12 microduplication was selected for transfer, and prenatal diagnosis based on amniotic fluid sample showed that the fetal chromosomal karyotype was normal and did not carry the 17p12 microduplication.Conclusion:The combined application of high-resolution PGT-A and PGT-M typing detection of the target region can effectively block family transmission of the CNVs of small fragments.